A review of boating mishaps shows a variety of factors are involved in the typical mishap. Improper weight distribution, overloading, inattention to weather conditions and improper lookout are the chief causes of accidents. Hanging over the side and riding on the bow, combined with unexpected turns, lead to falls overboard. Alcohol and boating accidents go hand in hand. Alcohol lessens alertness and the sense of balance that is crucial to accident free boating. This can occur with as little as one or two drinks. The U.S. Coast Guard reports alcohol involvement in over 50 percent of all serious boating accidents.
| Take a safe boating course. The local Coast Guard Auxiliary can provide the information necessary to enroll. |
| Do a pre-season inspection of your boat, motor, and safety accessories and check them each time you go out. |
| Install a dead-man ignition switch on your motor. |
| Abide by the manufacturer's load capacity plate on the boat. It lists limits for people, motor and gear. Don't overload. |
| Make sure the required safety equipment (i. e., personal flotation devices, fire extinguisher, whistle, horn, flares, etc.,) is aboard the boat. |
| A VHF radio is recommended as well as an anchor and line. |
| Always leave a float plan with a friend or marina operator. Indicate where you are going, departure time, boat name, registration number, and what time to notify the Coast Guard if you have not returned. |
| Check weather conditions before you leave and immediately return home if the weather turns sour. Don't wait for the waves to come over the bow. |
| Ensure everyone wears an approved Coast Guard personal flotation device while underway on an MWR rented boat, smaller than 16 feet per OPNAVINST 5100.25A. Additionally, this practice is highly recommended for all boats. Boats 16 feet and longer are required to be equipped with one Type I, II, III, or V (wearable) device for each person aboard plus one Type IV (cushion or life ring). Boats less than 16 feet in length are required to carry one Type I, II, III, IV OR V for each person aboard. |
| Do not drink while operating a boat. Discourage passengers from drinking too. Most states have stiff penalties, similar to those imposed on motor vehicles operators, for operating a boat while intoxicated. |
| When passing marinas, fishing areas, or swimming areas reduce speed to prevent wakes. |
For more information on boating safety write:
U.S. Coast Guard
Office of Boating, Public and Consumer Affairs
2100 Second St., SW
Washington, DC 20593
